Decorative Painting in Historic Houses

Decorative painting is a hallmark of a prestigious historic house and the ultimate ode to luxury. In a world of mass production, it is a breath of fresh air – something unique for guests and visitors to enjoy.

Furthermore, it is suitable for nearly all structures and buildings. You see it most commonly in churches, courthouses, libraries, and theaters. However, it is also a feature in many private homes.

This article looks at various forms of decorative painting to lavish your historic house (whether you own it yourself or are merely taking care of it on behalf of the public).

Glazing

Glazing is a popular decorative painting technique where craftspeople add a thin translucent layer to change the underlying paint’s color. The process often gets used when restoring murals and other original works of art to their former glory. However, you can add depth to the existing colorwork using it, too. 

Faux Bois

“Faux bois” is French for “false wood.” This decorative technique imitates the appearance of wood grain on surfaces, eliminating the requirement to fit real paneling.

Faux bois is popular in dining rooms and saunas. However, it works almost anywhere you want to create a cabin-like feel which is why so many people use it.

Gilding

Gilding is another option and one of the most luxurious techniques available. It involves applying a thin sheet of gold or silver metal to a wall or ceiling. Treated surfaces take on a lustrous appearance, adding to the decorative look you want to achieve.

Gilding is costly so you’ll need a substantial budget if you’re looking to cover a large area. However, you can also sometimes get substitute compounds for gilding (in some situations) that cost up to 90% less than the real thing.

Marbleizing

Marbleizing is also a technique you can explore when upping the ante in decorative houses. It simulates the appearance of polished marble without the expense (or installation challenges!)

Interestingly, you can achieve marbleizing in a few distinct ways. One method involves using a special plaster. Artisans apply it to the walls and ceilings to create a marble-like effect. Another approach leverages glazed paints. These compounds have an iridescent property that gives the appearance of marble’s complex grain.

Trompe L’oeil

Trompe L’oeil or “deceive the eye” is another sought-after technique for decoratively painting historic houses. The method creates the impression of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface, making it useful for imitating the appearance of architectural features (like balustrades or columns).

Stenciling

Finally, some historic houses use stenciling. This technique is ideal for creating friezes and borders without adding moldings, dado rails, or skirting boards. (You can also apply it to all these elements for even more decorative flair).

Need Decorative Painting? Call Martzall’s Custom Surfaces!

We offer custom decorative painting options for your floors, ceilings, fireplaces, and other surfaces! Why put up with a dated look when you can easily revitalize them with Martzall's Custom Surfaces? Contact us today for a free quote!